The Calathea Ornata (Calathea ornata), also known as the Pinstripe Plant, is a stunning tropical houseplant admired for its dark green leaves with striking pink pinstripes. Native to South America, this eye-catching foliage plant adds an elegant touch to any indoor space. Its deep purple undersides and unique striping pattern make it a favorite among plant collectors and interior designers.

Is Calathea Ornata Pet Safe?

Yes! The Calathea Ornata is non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a pet-safe houseplant ideal for homes with cats and dogs.

Calathea Ornata Care Instructions

🌞 Light Requirements

  • Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate medium to low light.
  • Avoid direct sunlight, as it can fade the vibrant pinstripes and scorch the leaves.
  • Best placed near a north- or east-facing window with filtered light.

💧 Watering & Humidity

  • Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy—water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
  • Use filtered or distilled water to prevent brown leaf edges, as Calatheas are sensitive to chemicals in tap water.
  • Prefers high humidity (above 50%)—use a humidifier, misting, or a pebble tray to maintain moisture.

🌱 Soil & Potting

  • Requires a well-draining, peat-based potting mix with perlite for aeration.
  • Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water buildup and root rot.
  • Repot every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and encourage healthy growth.

🌡️ Temperature & Environment

  • Thrives in 65-80°F (18-27°C)—avoid temperatures below 60°F (15°C).
  • Keep away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and heaters, as sudden temperature changes can cause stress.

🍃 Fertilizing

  • Feed with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
  • Reduce feeding in fall and winter, when growth slows down.

🛑 Common Issues & Troubleshooting

  • Curling leaves? Likely due to low humidity or underwatering—increase misting and check soil moisture.
  • Brown leaf edges? Often caused by tap water chemicals or low humidity—use filtered water and boost humidity.
  • Drooping leaves? Can be a sign of overwatering or underwatering—adjust watering schedule accordingly.

The Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe sanguinea 'Triostar') is a tropical houseplant known for its vibrant, variegated leaves featuring shades of pink, green, and creamy white. This prayer plant relative belongs to the Marantaceae family, meaning its leaves move throughout the day, responding to light changes.

With its exotic, eye-catching foliage, the Stromanthe Triostar is perfect for adding a bold statement to indoor plant collections. It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires high humidity, making it a great choice for bathrooms, sunrooms, or greenhouse setups. 

Is Stromanthe Triostar Pet Safe? (Pet Caution)

The Stromanthe Triostar is non-toxic to pets, making it a pet-friendly houseplant for homes with cats and dogs. However, chewing on the leaves may cause mild irritation or digestive discomfort. 

Stromanthe Triostar Care Instructions

🌞 Light Requirements

  • Bright, Indirect Light: Thrives in filtered or indirect sunlight.
  • Avoid Direct Sunlight: Too much sun can burn the delicate leaves, causing fading or browning.
  • Low Light Tolerant: Can survive in lower light conditions, but its colors may become less vibrant.

💧 Watering & Humidity

  • Keep Soil Slightly Moist: Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry, but avoid overwatering.
  • Use Filtered or Distilled Water: Stromanthe is sensitive to tap water, which may cause leaf browning.
  • High Humidity Required: Prefers humidity levels above 50-60%. Use a humidifier, misting, or pebble tray for best results.

🌱 Soil & Potting

  • Well-Draining Soil: Use a rich, peat-based potting mix with added perlite for aeration.
  • Pot with Drainage Holes: Ensures proper drainage and prevents root rot.

🌡️ Temperature & Environment

  • Ideal Temperature: Prefers 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C).
  • Avoid Cold Drafts: Keep away from air conditioners, heaters, and cold windows.

🍃 Fertilizing

  • Feed Monthly in Spring & Summer: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength.
  • Reduce Fertilization in Fall & Winter: Growth slows down, so feeding is less necessary.

🛑 Common Issues & Troubleshooting

  • Crispy or Browning Leaf Edges: Often due to low humidity or tap water sensitivity. Use filtered water and increase moisture.
  • Yellowing Leaves: Can be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Adjust watering schedule accordingly.
  • Drooping Leaves: May indicate thirst or stress from a sudden environment change.